Emily Rebecca Mathis

Emily “Jigger” Mathis of Little Rock, Arkansas was born March 7th, 1979 and left this world December 25th, 2022. She was a beloved daughter, granddaughter, sister, aunt, and friend who turned the challenges of her life into lessons on living well. Jigger was sassy, funny, and quick with a smile that warmed us to our toes. She also showed us the power of peace, patience, and gratitude; how to live wholly and truthfully in the present and appreciate the simplest things.

Jigger loved ice cream, sunshine, her grandmother’s custard, and her dog, Jack. But more than anything or anyone, Jigger loved her momma, Ginger. To watch them was to understand love in its purest form. For forty-three years, Ginger fretted and fought, gave endlessly and tirelessly of herself to ensure that every need was met, every desire fulfilled, every comfort accommodated – to give Jigger a life of dignity and beauty.

Jigger was blessed with so many kind souls who helped make her life full. Her family wants each to know that every kindness – big and small, seen and unseen – will stay forever in our hearts with gratitude and love.

Jigger is survived by her mother, Ginger (Jerry) Unser, father, Russ (Deb) Mathis, grandmother, Emily Dickinson, siblings, Tony Bryan, Katy Mathis, Kyle (Whitney) Unser, and Stan (Clare) Mathis, and seven nieces and nephews.

A casual visitation and celebration of Jigger’s life will be held at Park Hill Presbyterian Church (3520 JFK Blvd, North Little Rock) on Saturday, January 7th between 2 and 4pm. The family asks that in lieu of flowers, a random act of kindness be performed in her memory. Both giver and receiver benefit and the world becomes a bit better.

Those of us left behind can find solace knowing that Jigger’s suffering is through and now she is dancing, singing, and making up for lost time.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.pinecrestfh.com for the Mathis family.